The Government made its way to Rotorua
to talk about how businesses plan to get through the tough times.
Reporter Irena Smith was there and spoke to a Maori cafe owner
anxious about what the future holds for her and her employees.
Rotorua's main trade is tourism with many businesses around town
reliant on the industry.
All of them are negatively impacted by Covid-19.
I spoke to the Maori owner of a cafe
who said while there is a downturn incoming cash flow,
looking after her employees was her top priority.
The hands are still doing the work but the mind is feeling the strain.
Paula Collins says
that in over the last two weeks
she's seen a downward trend of customers entering her café's doors.
It's a sudden situation where nothing can be done.
When the Prime Minister met with business leaders
it was all about uniting.
It started overseas and it's made its way here to NZ.
And now we're all here
to discuss what we should do moving forward to ensure
our businesses survive.
Well, we're all now looking to see what we can do.
This problem has impacted the entire world.
I'm happy and joyous that all of Rotorua is here,
both Maori and non-Maori alike.
So because of that we have a better chance
of putting up a united front
and stance and ensure that no one goes without.
And there are hopes Maori businesses can support each other.
This Maori business' doors are still open right up until closing time.
Food for thought,
with a tinge of sadness as everyone is collectively concerned together.
It's unknown how long-lasting
the impacts of covid-19 will be on Rotorua.
However, it appears based on what's being said
that hotels, restaurants and other businesses
are banding together to help each other.
Tomorrow, several Government ministers will head
to the East Coast
to deliver messages
that will hopefully lift the spirits of the locals.
Irena Smith in Rotorua.